My story
Unlocking Self-Discovery Through Solo Travel: A Journey of Personal Growth and Connection
Hi, I'm Rasa, a traveller hailing from the serene village of Santaka in Lithuania. Known among my friends as a wanderer who's always on the move, my journey has been filled with countless adventures and unexpected twists. Although I often feel I could do more, I don't necessarily see myself as doing something different from others. But amidst the excitement of exploring new places, there's always been a lingering dream that I couldn't shake off – the dream of leading walking tours in the enchanting city of Porto.​
Let me take you back to where it all began. The idea of solo travel first sparked when I found myself with no companions to join me on my adventures. Rather than let the opportunity slip away, I embraced the freedom of exploring alone, discovering new sights and experiences with each step I took. It wasn't long before I realized that my love for travel and my passion for walking were intertwined, leading me down a path of self-discovery and adventure. And it all started with a simple question to myself: What do I want more, or what would bring me more joy or sadness? Is it the fear of travelling alone, or staying at home without travelling? Is it to walk 10-20 km or do not see something at all? Life is full of choices, don't you think?
But perhaps what brings me the greatest joy is the opportunity to share my experiences with others. And knowing that I might have helped someone, or inspired someone. Whether it's through inspiring stories, practical advice, or a simple shared moment of laughter, the act of sharing transforms solitary adventures into communal experiences. Thanks to my love of travel and curiosity about other cultures, travel isn't just about ticking off bucket list destinations for me. It's also about forging connections with the world around me and fellow travellers. It's about embracing the unknown, finding beauty in the unexpected, and leaving a positive impact wherever I go.to pursue my passion for walking tours in Porto.
When I was living in Spain (right after university I went there to volunteer and then I was thinking about what I would like to do. I wanted to work in travel agencies but, unfortunately, my studies were not suited to them and I didn't have much experience. I still don't have much experience Then, living in London, during the quarantine, I laughed /I was joking that I was travelling by studying on the internet, and I did because I had more time (I was working from home, not from the shop, in which I was leaving not only all my energy, but also my soul... ), I remotely studied at Wageningen University in the Netherlands during the quarantine, where I got a professional certificate in “sustainable tourism”, and then I did a remote “Tourism And Travel Management” course at the University of Queensland in Australia. I said it was just for myself and that I wanted to know more about it.
Fast forward to the present, and here I am, living in beautiful Portugal, since 2022, where the allure of Porto and Portugal has captured my heart. And I don't know why but Portugal was/is calling to me, I feel like I'm in the home here; a home that I still need to build.
Last year I confirmed to myself that every New Year's resolution for the New Year can come true if you make a plan and work for it. This year I reflected on my aspirations for the future, and I made a resolution to turn my dream into a reality. And, as Tony Robbins says "have a life happening for me, not to me". With determination and a clear plan in mind, I set out to pursue: This year, all my focus is on getting my own home and being able to get a puppy. I know I can’t do it just yet... My current income is not enough; winning the lottery would help, but we all know how unlikely that is.
This is how at the end of last year I started to look for extra jobs, part-time, extra income and other ways to save up for my goal to be more achievable sooner. This is how I remembered the idea, a dream of walking tours again… it was also kept alive by all the people I've been able to show Porto to since June 2022, and not only friends but also friends of friends (always for free and without expecting anything). I'm very happy and grateful for them because it is thanks to the indulgence and gratitude of these people that I have been dreaming about this activity and finally with determination and a clear plan in mind, I set out to pursue my passion for walking tours in Porto.
And so, with a newfound determination and gratitude for the support of those around me, I'm excited to finally share my plan to launch walking tours in Porto. After years of dreaming, I am thrilled to finally see this dream come true. As I embark on this new chapter, I'm reminded that dreams are worth chasing, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. With each step forward, I'm filled with anticipation and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Here's to embracing the journey, pursuing our passions, and making our dreams a reality. I can't wait to share the magic of Porto with fellow travellers and create unforgettable memories along the way.